Osteoporosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive skeletal fragility resulting from reduced bone mass and altered bone microarchitecture. The disease is caused by a predominance of osteoclast activity over that of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for building bone.
Several factors can contribute to the development of osteoporosis, including genetic, nutritional and environmental factors. Although this disease is common in women after the menopause, it can also affect men, albeit less commonly. In addition, although rare, it is also possible for children to be affected by this condition.
Some major risk factors are associated with osteoporosis, such as calcium and vitamin D deficiency, advanced age, a family history of the disease, a sedentary lifestyle and smoking. It is important to note that these factors may increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis, but do not necessarily guarantee its occurrence.
Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by excessive skeletal fragility due to reduced bone mass and altered bone microarchitecture. Its development is influenced by an imbalance between osteoblasts and osteoclasts, and several risk factors such as calcium and vitamin D deficiency, age, family history, sedentary lifestyle and smoking can increase the likelihood of the onset of this disease.
Causes of osteoporosis
Osteoporosis can result from
- insufficient bone capital at the end of growth,
- excessive bone loss due to age,
- certain diseases.
The factors determining the acquisition of bone capital and bone loss include
- genetic
- nutritional,
- environmental.
The incidence of osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is common in women after menopause, because bone mass decreases with age and with the lack of female hormones (estrogen). However, it can also affect men, although severe forms are more common in men. Exceptionally, children can also be affected.
It is important to note that osteoporosis is a silent disease and that the first signs are often fractures. It is therefore important to consult a physician for early diagnosis and treatment.
Prevention of osteoporosis
It is important to adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent osteoporosis, which includes a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, as well as regular exercise to strengthen the bones. It is also advisable to limit smoking and alcohol consumption, which can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis.
In a nutshell
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by excessive skeletal fragility due to decreased bone mass and altered bone microarchitecture. It is caused by an imbalance between osteoblasts and osteoclasts, and can result from genetic, nutritional and environmental factors. Osteoporosis is common in women after menopause, but can also affect men and children. It is important to consult a physician for early diagnosis and treatment, and to adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent the disease.